Take a running jump to help quit smoking! (From Tewkesbury Admag)

Take a running jump to help quit smoking!

SMOKERS who aim to kick the habit in the run up to No Smoking Day are offered the chance to splash out if they succeed.

People planning to give up are invited to test the levels of carbon monoxide in their lungs and blood to prepare them for quitting on March 9.

After blowing into a Smokerlyzer machine at Bourton leisure centre, the reforming smokers will be invited back on No Smoking Day for a second test.

If the level has dropped, they will be offered a free swim or the chance to join a health walk organised by Cotswold District Council. The council's health development officer Jeanette Hughes said: "Research suggests that 70 per cent of those people who smoke would like to give up. Most people are aware that smoking increases the risk of developing conditions such as coronary heart disease and high blood pressure.

"We're encouraging as many smokers as possible to come along and take this simple test. We have a wealth of information at hand from Gloucestershire Smoking Advice Service, to help those people who decide they want to quit.

"The service and the council recognise that smoking is an addiction, and are working together to offer smokers encouragement and support to give up.

"The good news is that the level of carbon monoxide in the blood falls almost immediately when people stop smoking. Within a couple of days, it will be the same as a non-smoker's - with the added benefit of more energy, better circulation and increased concentration."

Smokelyzer tests will be available from 11am -8pm at Bourton leisure centre until Monday. Participants need to return for their second tests on Wednesday, March 9.

For further details, contact Jeanette Hughes on 01285 623450.